Craniosacral Fascial Therapy & Constipation: Supporting Children from the Inside Out

Child laying on bed with stomach pain

Constipation is something I hear about from families all the time — and it can be incredibly hard to watch a child struggle. A little one who’s uncomfortable, holding in bowel movements, or feeling tense in their body can throw off the rhythm of the entire household. While daily habits like hydration, nutrition, and toileting routines matter, there is often a deeper physical layer contributing to the challenge: tension within the body’s connective tissues and craniosacral system.

That’s where Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) can offer gentle, meaningful support.

What Is CFT? A Look at the Gillespie-Inspired Approach

CFT, originally developed by Dr. Barry Gillespie, blends elements of two therapeutic models:

• Craniosacral work, which looks at the mobility and ease of the head, spine, and the tissues surrounding the nervous system

• Fascial release, which addresses restrictions in the fascia — the connective tissue that weaves through every muscle, organ, and structural system of the body

This perspective sees the body as one interconnected network. When tension develops in any part of this system — especially around the abdomen, diaphragm, pelvis, or lower spine — it may influence digestion and how comfortably the intestines can move stool along.

For many children, these patterns of tightness begin early. Pregnancy positioning, birth experiences, or even typical developmental habits can create strain that makes bowel movements feel difficult or uncomfortable.

How Fascial Tension Can Contribute to Constipation

Children who experience constipation often have areas of tightness that affect how their body handles digestion. Common areas include:

1. Abdomen & Pelvic Region

Tight fascia around the intestines or pelvic floor can reduce mobility of the bowels. This may lead to straining, withholding, or stools that are infrequent and firm.

2. The Diaphragm

Because the diaphragm plays a key role in breathing and internal movement, restrictions here can limit the gentle “pumping” motion that helps support healthy gut motility.

3. Spine & Sacrum

Nerves that communicate with the digestive system originate in the spinal cord. Restrictions along the lower back or sacrum may affect how clearly these messages travel.

4. The Whole-Body Fascial Web

Fascial tissue is continuous — so a restriction in the neck, back, or shoulders can create tension that extends into other regions, sometimes showing up in digestion.

When these tight areas begin to soften and unwind through CFT, families often notice positive shifts: easier bowel movements, more regularity, decreased discomfort, and a child who seems more at ease overall.

What a CFT Session for Constipation Looks Like

CFT is gentle, child-led, and responsive to the body’s cues. During a session:

• I follow the natural guidance of your child’s fascial system to identify where support is needed

• Babies and young children can stay snuggled with a caregiver, play on the floor, or move freely while we work

• Each release supports the body in reorganizing from the inside, allowing more space and mobility for digestive processes

Many parents are surprised by how relaxed and comfortable their child is throughout the session.

Why CFT Compliments Holistic Pediatric Care

CFT is not a replacement for pediatric medical guidance — it’s an additional tool that addresses the physical and structural aspects of constipation that may not respond fully to diet changes or medications.

For many families, it becomes the missing link between medical care and everyday comfort.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from CFT

CFT may be worth exploring if your child:

• Experiences chronic or recurrent constipation

• Avoids or withholds bowel movements

• Appears tense or uncomfortable in their body

• Has a history of reflux, feeding challenges, or a difficult birth

• Seems to have abdominal tightness or difficulty relaxing

Constipation is not something children simply have to “grow out of.” By easing fascial restrictions and supporting the craniosacral system, we help the body function with more ease and efficiency.

If you’re curious about whether CFT may help your child find more comfort and regularity, I would love to connect. At Warm Heart Wellness, my goal is to support your child with gentle, individualized care so they can feel more relaxed, more comfortable, and more themselves.

Dr. Rebecca Turkel is the Owner of Warm Heart Wellness located in Natick, MA.  She is a Craniosacral Fascial Therapist, Licensed Pediatric Physical Therapist, Certified Early Intervention Specialist, Certified Educator of Infant Massage, Certified in Neonatal Behavior Observation, Certified Tummy Time Method Practitioner and Integrative Breastfeeding Educator. 

Dr. Turkel has over 19 years’ experience working with families in an Early Intervention setting as a Developmental Specialist and Physical Therapist as well as 15 years’ experience working at Boston Children's Hospital as a Physical Therapist.